Demographics, technology and the healthcare system are all changing in response to the “new senior.” Haven’t you heard that 70 is the new 50? But even so, as the population ages, so does the prevalence of hearing loss. Yet the prevalence of hearing aid use has not changed in decades.

"While more than 50 percent of people over age 65 have hearing loss due to the aging process, it’s also estimated that 1 in 6 baby boomers have a hearing problem."

Why is hearing loss taken so seriously for children, but largely ignored by older adults? Both seniors and children need to be able to communicate. The fact is communication becomes increasingly important as we age. Additionally, hearing loss is now being correlated to other health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s and dementia. With these new research developments, there is more reason than ever to get a hearing test.

Surprisingly, nearly 25 percent of adult Canadians have identified some form of hearing loss. While more than 50 percent of people over age 65 have hearing loss due to the aging process, it’s also estimated that 1 in 6 baby boomers have a hearing problem.

People with hearing loss often feel embarrassed and that they are coping with a condition that others can’t understand. They often try to bluff their way through situations and deny that there is a problem. Although there is overwhelming evidence that hearing aids can help, only 1 in 5 who need hearing aids actually use them. It has also been reported that individuals with hearing loss wait 6 to 10 years before they seek help, during which time the impact of hearing loss increases.

For those with hearing loss, there is help. Once evaluated, hearing loss can often be managed with appropriate hearing aids, safety devices, education and aural rehabilitation. Ninety percent of people with hearing loss can improve communication with properly fitted hearing aids and rehabilitative counselling.

Managing hearing loss

May is ‘Speech and Hearing’ month. For anyone concerned about their hearing, it’s a great time to get a hearing test. Make an appointment with a hearing healthcare professional to get your hearing checked and get advice on how to manage your hearing loss and how to prevent more from occurring. Whether you need a hearing aid, assistive listening device, tinnitus therapy or strategies for communication, a hearing healthcare professional can help you get reconnected to the world around you.